All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Governor: West Virginia’s winter wonderland attractions in full swing amid record tourism growth

Gov. Patrick Morrisey is urging travelers to hit West Virginia’s slopes, state parks, and holiday events as the state heads toward record tourism growth.

Governor Patrick Morrisey encouraged travelers to explore West Virginia’s winter offerings as the state looks to close out 2025 with record-breaking tourism growth.

“From mountain resorts and state parks to holiday light displays and hometown celebrations, winter tourism supports jobs, strengthens communities, and drives our economy,” Morrisey said at a press conference at Winterplace Ski Resort. “We’re encouraging everyone to get out, explore, shop local, and help us finish 2025 strong.”

This year’s ski season began earlier this month with Timberline Mountain opening December 4, Snowshoe Mountain on December 5 and Winterplace Ski Resort on December 6. All five of West Virginia’s ski resorts are now open, offering excellent conditions statewide.

Winter tourism is expected to bring more than 18.5 million visitors this season. Earlier this year, the state surpassed $9.1 billion in annual tourism economic impact, with 77.2 million visitors spending $6.6 billion, a new all-time record and a 28 percent increase over pre-pandemic levels. Tourism supports nearly 61,000 jobs and generated $1.1 billion in tax revenue last year.

West Virginia’s resorts play an important part of this effort. Timberline features more than 20 trails and a high-speed six-person chairlift. Snowshoe has more than 60 skiing and snowboarding routes, snowtubing, horse-drawn carriage rides and a village of shops and restaurants. Winterplace provides nearly 30 trails, two terrain parks and the state’s longest snowtubing run. Winterplace was recently named USA Today’s Best Place to Learn How to Ski and a top snowtubing destination.

“I’m so excited about the amazing start we’ve had to the 2025-26 winter season so far,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “We’ve been able to give travelers an early taste of authentic skiing right here in the Mountain State. With experienced instructors and beginner-friendly terrain, our wonderful resorts make Almost Heaven, West Virginia, one of the best places in the country to learn to ski.”

Beyond the slopes, the Mountain State offers the quintessential holiday experience. Families can stroll through dazzling light displays across the state, take a magical ride on the Polar Express, glide through snowy trails at the White Grass Ski Touring Center or experience the thrill of tubing at Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry. Adventure seekers can tackle off-roading on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, explore breathtaking frozen waterfalls in state parks or race down the Blackwater Falls Sled Run, the East Coast’s longest sled run, opening December 18.

For those planning a winter getaway, travelers can also save 15 percent on stays of two nights or more at West Virginia state lodges and cabins using the code “JOLLY.” The offer excludes Stonewall Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park. For details and to book, visit wvstateparks.com.

For a guide to planning your winter getaway, visit wvtourism.com.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Basketball Lady Bucs win second in a row; down Sissonvile, 57-44

Allie Key’s 16 points and 11 rebounds and strong bench play helped Buckhannon-Upshur beat Sissonville 57-44 for their second win of the season, with Madelyn Tucker and Aubrey Key adding 11 each.

Rock Cave man arrested on methamphetamine charge following traffic stop

A Rock Cave man was arrested on charges of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine and conspiracy.

Upshur County Commission Agenda: January 22, 2026

The Upshur County Commission will hold a meeting on January 22, 2026, with the posted agenda outlining items for discussion and action.

Buckhannon man arrested for allegedly entering laundromat while it was closed

A Buckhannon man was arrested after allegedly entering the Speed Wash Laundromat after hours while another person stole from the quarter machine.

Upshur County students show gains in reading, math at mid-year benchmarks

Upshur County students posted mid-year gains on i-Ready benchmarks, with fewer students falling behind in both reading and math. Superintendent Christy Miller also flagged chronic absenteeism as a key focus.

Annette Reel

Annette Reel, 67, of Hurricane, WV, an FBI analyst and Christian Fellowship Church member, died January 18, 2026; she is survived by two children, five grandchildren, four siblings, and will be cremated with a later celebration of life.

Blanche Grace (Helmick) McCartney

Blanche Grace (Helmick) McCartney, 99, a former West Buckhannon Methodist Church choir member and longtime resident of the Buckhannon area, died January 18, 2026, leaving three sons, multiple descendants, and a large extended family.

Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board Agenda: January 22, 2026

The Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board will meet January 22, 2026; this agenda outlines items to be considered at that session.

City of Buckhannon calendar for the week of January 19, 2026

Buckhannon’s week of Jan. 19 includes MLK Day closures (waste collection still on schedule), curbside recycling pickup Tuesday at 6 a.m., and a Consolidated Public Works meeting Thursday with in-person and virtual options.